2.2 CE labelling
2.2.1 CE Conformity and Labelling
What is CE Conformity and Labelling?
The purpose of CE labelling is to avoid technical trade obstacles within EFTA and the EU. The EU has introduced the CE label as a simple way of showing
whether a product complies with the relevant EU directives. The CE label says nothing about the specifications or quality of the product. Frequency
converters are regulated by three EU directives:
The machinery directive (98/37/EEC)
All machines with critical moving parts are covered by the machinery directive of January 1, 1995. Since a frequency converter is largely electrical, it does
not fall under the machinery directive. However, if a frequency converter is supplied for use in a machine, we provide information on safety aspects
relating to the frequency converter. We do this by means of a manufacturer's declaration.
The low-voltage directive (73/23/EEC)
Frequency converters must be CE labelled in accordance with the low-voltage directive of January 1, 1997. The directive applies to all electrical equipment
and appliances used in the 50 - 1000 V AC and the 75 - 1500 V DC voltage ranges. Danfoss CE-labels in accordance with the directive and issues a
declaration of conformity upon request.
The EMC directive (89/336/EEC)
EMC is short for electromagnetic compatibility. The presence of electromagnetic compatibility means that the mutual interference between different
components/appliances does not affect the way the appliances work.
The EMC directive came into effect January 1, 1996. Danfoss CE-labels in accordance with the directive and issues a declaration of conformity upon
request. To carry out EMC-correct installation, see the instructions in this Design Guide. In addition, we specify which standards our products comply
with. We offer the filters presented in the specifications and provide other types of assistance to ensure the optimum EMC result.
The frequency converter is most often used by professionals of the trade as a complex component forming part of a larger appliance, system or installation.
It must be noted that the responsibility for the final EMC properties of the appliance, system or installation rests with the installer.
2.2.2 What Is Covered
The EU "
Guidelines on the Application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC
" outline three typical situations of using a frequency converter. See below for EMC
coverage and CE labelling.
1. The frequency converter is sold directly to the end-consumer. The frequency converter is for example sold to a DIY market. The end-consumer
is a layman. He installs the frequency converter himself for use with a hobby machine, a kitchen appliance, etc. For such applications, the
frequency converter must be CE labelled in accordance with the EMC directive.
2. The frequency converter is sold for installation in a plant. The plant is built up by professionals of the trade. It could be a production plant or a
heating/ventilation plant designed and installed by professionals of the trade. Neither the frequency converter nor the finished plant has to be
CE labelled under the EMC directive. However, the unit must comply with the basic EMC requirements of the directive. This is ensured by using
components, appliances, and systems that are CE labelled under the EMC directive.
3. The frequency converter is sold as part of a complete system. The system is being marketed as complete and could e.g. be an air-conditioning
system. The complete system must be CE labelled in accordance with the EMC directive. The manufacturer can ensure CE labelling under the
EMC directive either by using CE labelled components or by testing the EMC of the system. If he chooses to use only CE labelled components,
he does not have to test the entire system.
2.2.3 Danfoss Frequency Converter and CE Labelling
CE labelling is a positive feature when used for its original purpose, i.e. to facilitate trade within the EU and EFTA.
However, CE labelling may cover many different specifications. Thus, you have to check what a given CE label specifically covers.
The covered specifications can be very different and a CE label may therefore give the installer a false feeling of security when using a frequency converter
as a component in a system or an appliance.
VLT
®
HVAC Drive Design Guide 2 Introduction to VLT HVAC Drive
MG.11.B9.02 - VLT
®
is a registered Danfoss trademark
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